Arguably the most practical root of playing the bass guitar is to start with a four string version first. It is easier on the hands because the neck is narrow making it much quicker to learn and gain muscle memory on both hands. However as you get fluid playing the four string bass, it won’t really take that long to think about trying out a five or six string bass. This drive is generally based on skills knowing that you already have a solid background playing with the four.
In considering which five or six string bass to pick is nevertheless no different when choosing a four string bass. Basic factors affecting the selection process is just the same, such as the brand you most likely will prefer, quality of components for the overall sound and playability of the bass, and last but definitely not the least budget.
As a suggestion for a less expensive five or six string bass. Ibanez has a number of models to choose from with a reasonable price and the most affordable of these basses is the Ibanez Gio GSR205 and GSR206 series entry level bass available in right and left handed versions.
Affiliate Disclosure
constantinecruz.com is a participant of Amazon Service LLC Associates Program. It is an affiliate advertising program designed to provide websites a means to earn money by advertising products by linking to Amazon.com.
This post contains paid links: If visitors of the site uses the links to buy items. “As an Amazon Associates I earn from qualifying purchases” at no extra cost to you. Learn more
- Contoured double cutaway body constructed using poplar wood with maple veneer top or (okoume body for walnut finish)
- GSR6 bolt-on neck is satin finish made of maple with a comfortable thin profile
- 24 medium frets jatoba fingerboard with dot inlay markers
- Set of Ibanez designed tuners in chrome or black
- Adjustable B16 bridge in 16.5mm string spacing
- Hum canceling Passive Dynamix Humbucking pick-ups on the neck and bridge controlled by a separate volume, master tone and Ibanez Active Phat II EQ bass boost-cut knob
Body and Neck: All of the Ibanez Gio GSR206 including the GSR205 models has a contoured double cutaway body constructed using poplar wood or (okoume for walnut finish) without a scratch plate, and the finish comes in a variety players can select. Weight of this bass is medium or can be a little heavy to some, and the broad body can deliver a fat tonal flavor for that classic to modern tones on a six string bass.
Neck is satin finish made of maple with a comfortable thin profile bolt-on to the body using four screws minus a plate. The 24 medium frets on the neck complete with inlay dots as markers is placed on a jatoba fingerboard which adds properties of warmth and roomy feel to the sound of the bass.
Pick-ups: Pick-ups that gives life to the bass are hum canceling Passive Dynamix Humbucking pick-ups installed on the neck and bridge part controlled by a separate volume for each pick-ups, master tone and Ibanez Active Phat II EQ bass boost-cut knob in chrome or black finish for low end power.
Hardware: The Ibanez Gio GSR206 has a B16 bridge in 16.5mm string spacing while the Ibanez Gio GSR205 has a B15 bridge, also with a 16.5mm string spacing and tuners are Ibanez designed. Finish on the hardware to match the bass can either be in chrome or black depending on the model.
Final Thoughts: For an entry level six and five string bass, the Ibanez GSR series will surely get what your moneys worth. The streamline body, comfortable maple and jatoba fingerboard is superb for a bass guitar in this category. Its hardware parts, pick-ups and electronics is very much capable in delivering a decent sound at the least to best, especially when set-up properly. So if your looking for a bass in this budget, the Ibanez Gio GSR205 and GSR206 is really something to consider.
Related Topic: